Open Innovation for Grid Operator Stedin

From ambition to realization: Zero-emission grid construction

Stedin aims to lay the electricity grid with zero emissions, meaning no release of CO2, nitrogen, or particulate matter. Simultaneously, they are working on ergonomic improvements to reduce the physical strain on technicians. Stedin asked nlmtd to scout for global solutions, with the primary question: “Are we overlooking any smart solutions, from home or abroad, that could help us speed up grid construction?”

Approach: Lookout Tower

nlmtd first assisted Stedin by breaking down the topic of zero emissions into categories and subcategories. We then began searching for solutions through a tech and sector scan.

Zero Emission Solutions

We identified 211 solutions across four categories, 23 one-pagers, and 11 prioritized solutions, focusing primarily on:

Sustainable digging
Sustainable transport
Decarbonizing power sources

See the infographic here.

Zero Emission Conclusion

Despite being a leader in the sector on this topic, we found solutions to help Stedin move towards zero-emission grid construction. The biggest gains lie in electrification, while the ecosystem presents the greatest challenge: How do you navigate the transition period, distribute financial risks, and what role does Stedin want to play in this ecosystem?

Below we describe in more detail the scouting of our solutions for zero emission and in this case the route to ergonomic improvements.

Zero Emissions

Grid construction faces significant emission-related challenges, especially in areas like Natura2000 zones and emission-free urban areas. The use of diesel engines causes disruptions, often delaying or even halting projects. Stedin is looking for ways to reinforce the grid without emissions, ensuring minimal work interruptions.

“This requires a mindset of ‘how can it be done,’ and a sense of urgency to take action ‘today rather than tomorrow.’“

Global Search for Solutions

Through the ‘Lookout Tower’ project, we looked for solutions in three ways:

We scouted
We launched challenges
We conducted research and expert interviews

The ‘Lookout Tower’ provides a clear overview of the various available solutions. We mapped out end users, their activities and needs, key problem areas, trends, developments, and existing initiatives related to zero emissions both within and outside of Stedin.

Tech and Sector Scan

Valuable solutions quickly emerged. A positive outcome for Stedin and the Dutch Grid Operators Association (Netbeheer Nederland), which they can start working on immediately.

“We spoke, for example, with PostNL about their logistics approach to zero emissions and with a forestry organization about sustainable digging techniques.“

Found solutions zero emissions

Emission 0

Emission-0 is an online platform for renting and leasing electric equipment for construction work. This provides Stedin the opportunity to access electric machinery without needing to make large investments.

Bright’s Battery

Bright’s battery solutions enable companies to operate sustainably on-site. The battery system provides a sustainable energy source, and its smart system allows users to monitor consumption and save costs. It can be used to charge both large and small equipment, resulting in lower emissions.

Limach

Limach is a manufacturer of electric construction machinery. The company produces machines powered by lithium batteries and installs its own developed software. These electric machines perform as well as fuel-powered ones but are emission-free and can operate for up to 8 hours on a single charge.

PostNL & ABN AMRO

PostNL, in collaboration with ABN AMRO, has launched an initiative to make it easier for contractors to acquire electric vans. This program helps contractors secure financing for purchases more easily.

By partnering with a financing institution, contractors are more motivated to invest in electric equipment and vehicles, further advancing zero-emission initiatives.

Next steps

Now that the solution directions are defined, it’s time to distribute responsibilities within the ecosystem. Under nlmtd’s guidance, this will take place after summer 2024. Key questions include: who will take action, and how? We will then conduct pilots to determine what works, how, and where.

Making Impact Together

Stedin funded the ‘Lookout Tower’ project and plans to share the findings widely. The entire ecosystem, from contractors to grid operators, will be involved, and the knowledge gained will be shared.

Conclusion

Stedin faces a significant challenge. For the energy transition, the grid operator must lay 12,000 kilometers of cables (which means opening up one-third of the streets). This ‘Lookout Tower’ project has identified solutions that will allow projects delayed or halted due to excessive emissions to move forward once again.